AutoRaise launches youth alliance to amplify young voices

AutoRaise has officially launched the AutoYouth Alliance (AYA) – a new initiative designed to give apprentices and recently qualified technicians a stronger voice in shaping the future of the UK’s automotive repair industry.

Unveiled during National Apprenticeship Week, the AYA brings together young people from across the sector to share lived experiences, contribute to national campaigns, and influence how apprenticeships are delivered and supported. The aim is to ensure early career professionals are not just participants in the sector, but active contributors to how it evolves.

The launch event, hosted by LKQ and sponsored by Vizion, gathered AYA members, employers, and industry partners for an open discussion on training, careers, and progression. Real-world insights from apprentices highlighted the strengths of the sector while also identifying opportunities for better alignment between training, communication, and expectations.

Following the event, the Alliance will act as a year-round forum focused on:

• Sharing experiences of apprenticeships and early careers
• Providing feedback to employers and training providers
• Contributing to industry campaigns and projects
• Helping shape how careers in automotive are presented to future talent

Emma Speed, Managing Director of AutoRaise, said: “Last week’s launch reinforced exactly why the AutoYouth Alliance is needed. The insight, honesty and perspective from the young people in the room was invaluable. If we want to build a stronger future workforce, we need to listen to those experiencing it, not just design it from the outside.”

The AYA is jointly chaired by Isaac Marriott of The Smallest Cog and Marcus Rafael from BASF, supported by organisations including Steer Group, The Vella Group, Admiral, Car-O-Liner, Acorn, BASF, and Northern Accident Repair (part of Vizion Network) – reflecting a shared commitment to long-term workforce development.

AutoRaise continues to back employers through initiatives such as the AutoRaise Bursary, removing financial barriers and supporting sustainable growth in apprentice numbers.